Albion cool Mowbray talk

11 October 2006 11:21

West Brom have cooled reports suggesting they are about to name Tony Mowbray as their new manager.
Hibernian have confirmed that Albion are keen to tempt Mowbray to succeed Bryan Robson at The Hawthorns but the Championship side insist a deal is far from completed.
A brief statement on Albion's website read: "Hibernian is one of a number of clubs from whom Albion has sought permission to speak to its manager regarding the vacancy at The Hawthorns."
Hibs chairman Rod Petrie said: "As far as possible, it is business as usual at the club in the run-up to the first Edinburgh derby of the season on Sunday.
"West Bromwich Albion have made a very public enquiry about our manager, Tony Mowbray. It is unprecedented that another club would name our manager on their website.
"However, their website makes it clear that Tony is only one of a number of people they wish to interview.
"Based on my discussions with their Chairman, Jeremy Peace, it appears that Hibernian's desire to retain Tony is stronger than West Bromwich Albion's interest in adding a candidate to a selection process.
"That means we need to try and avoid the distractions and focus on the rest of our season, starting Sunday."